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Lab Scientist Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Lab Schedule: Full-Time, 1400-2230 Facility: Prime Healthcare St. Mary's Hospital Location ... health science or Medical Laboratory Technology from an accredited institution, or other ...

New

Clinical Lab Scientist

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$30.98 - $43.25/hr

Clinical Lab โ€ข Schedule: Day shift- 6:30am-3pm with rotating holidays and weekends โ€ข Facility ... health science or Medical Laboratory Technology from an accredited institution, or other ...

Clinical Lab โ€ข Schedule: Evening Shift- 3pm-11:30pm - Part-Time with rotating holidays and ... health science or Medical Laboratory Technology from an accredited institution, or other ...

Medical Lab Scientist

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$32 - $36/hr

About Our Client Our client is looking for an experienced Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS/MT or MLT) to join their high-complexity clinical laboratory. This is a Generalist role with a strong focus ...

Clinical Lab Scientist/MT I

Danville, IL ยท On-site

$31.49 - $37.05/hr

Expected pay for Clinical Lab Scientist position is $31.49 - $37.05/hour. Actual pay will be determined by experience, skills and internal equity. This is an Hourly position. OSF will invest in you ...

Showing results 21-40

Lab Scientist information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$24

$43

How much do lab scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab scientist in Illinois is $24.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.65 and $27.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lab scientist?

Lab scientists, also known as laboratory scientists or clinical laboratory scientists, are professionals who perform tests and analyses on samples such as blood, tissue, and other bodily fluids. They work in medical, research, or industrial laboratories to help diagnose diseases, conduct experiments, and ensure the quality of products or research results. Their role is vital in supporting doctors with accurate data for diagnosis and treatment, as well as advancing scientific knowledge and innovation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Scientist, you need a strong background in biology or chemistry, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, typically supported by a relevant science degree. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), analytical instruments, and safety protocols is essential, and certifications such as ASCP can be advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate experimental results, maintain safety standards, and foster successful teamwork in research or clinical environments.

What are some common challenges faced by lab scientists when working on collaborative research projects?

Lab Scientists often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, which can present challenges such as aligning on research objectives, coordinating experiment timelines, and ensuring consistent data sharing protocols. Effective communication and adaptability are essential for managing differing scientific perspectives or methods. Building strong working relationships and leveraging project management tools can help Lab Scientists navigate these challenges and contribute positively to team outcomes.

What is the difference between Lab Scientist vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab ScientistLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant science field; often requires certification or licensingAssociate's degree or diploma in laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, academic institutionsClinical labs, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesDesign experiments, analyze data, interpret results, develop new testing methodsPrepare samples, operate lab equipment, perform routine tests, record data
Industry UsageUsed across research, healthcare, biotech, and pharmaceutical sectorsPrimarily in clinical diagnostics and routine testing environments

In summary, Lab Scientists typically hold higher educational credentials and focus on research, analysis, and development, while Laboratory Technicians perform routine testing and sample preparation. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

Are lab scientists in demand?

Lab scientists are in high demand due to ongoing advancements in healthcare, biotechnology, and research industries. Employment opportunities are expected to grow faster than average, especially for those with specialized skills, certifications, and experience working with laboratory equipment and data analysis tools.

How much do lab scientists get paid?

Lab scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $55,000 to $75,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can vary based on specialization, certifications, and the work environment, such as research labs or clinical settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Scientist jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Lab Scientist jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Lab Scientist jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Lab Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Scientist job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,890 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Clinical Lab Scientist

St. Mary's Hospital - Kankakee

Kankakee, IL โ€ข On-site

$27.50 - $38.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Bonus Amount
10000
Bonus Information
Sign-On Bonus Available for Qualified Candidates. Eligibility and payout terms apply. Details discussed during the interview process.
Overview
Department: Lab
Schedule: Full-Time, 1400-2230
Facility: Prime Healthcare St. Mary's Hospital
Location: Kankakee, IL
Responsibilities
Each individual performs those waived, moderate, or highly complex tests authorized by CLIA, responsibilities listed under CFR ยง 493.1425 and ยง 493.1495 and must possess a degree of skill commensurate with individual's education, training or experience and technical abilities. Each individual performing the above procedures must: 1) adhere to the laboratory's procedures for the collection, processing, analysis, and reporting of patient test results, 2) follow the laboratory's established quality control policies and procedures in documenting all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications, 3) be capable of identifying problems that may adversely affect test performance and either correct the problem or immediately notify your immediate supervisor, Director, or Medical Director, 4) perform a wide variety of laboratory procedures requiring independent judgment using both manual and automated methods in Hematology, Blood Bank, Chemistry, Urinalysis, Coagulation, Microbiology, Immunology, and any other discipline as introduced into the laboratory, 5) perform and document maintenance - daily, weekly, monthly, or as needed on instruments and equipment as appropriate, 6) review the accuracy of patient results prior to releasing or reporting, 7) recognize age specific differences in expected results for newborns to geriatrics, 8) ensure that the testing of proficiency testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient samples and that collaboration with other laboratories is prohibited prior to the reporting of proficiency testing results to the appropriate agencies, 9) may be required to perform venipuncture or capillary puncture on various age groups from newborn to geriatrics, 10) assist in the development and maintenance of laboratory policies and procedures, 11) adheres to all department and hospital policies and procedures related to safety, infection control, emergency preparedness, and human resources, 12) in the absence of a supervisor, may be assigned/identified as Lead Tech, having responsibility for the section or department during their shift, 13) may be assigned responsibilities related to LIS and/or POCT. 14) other tasks or responsibilities may be assigned by the department manager/director.
Qualifications
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, TRAINING
1. ASCP certification, or equivalent, preferred.
2. One year hospital laboratory work experience preferred, but not required.
3. Bachelor's Degree in chemical, physical, biological health science or Medical Laboratory Technology from an accredited institution, or other educational requirements stated in CLIA (42 CFR 493.1423).
4. Current and Valid State License if the laboratory is located in a state where required.
The company is dedicated to empowering its staff with a comprehensive, competitive benefits package, allowing them the freedom to customize their benefits to fit their unique needs. Our abundant resources, programs, and voluntary options serve as a foundation for individual growth and well-being. Learn more here: https://www.primehealthcare.com/benefitsthatmattermost/
Pay Transparency
St. Mary's Hospital - Kankakee offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package that provides employees the flexibility to tailor benefits according to their individual needs. Our Total Rewards package includes, but is not limited to, paid time off, a 401K retirement plan, medical, dental, and vision coverage, tuition reimbursement, and many more voluntary benefit options. A reasonable compensation estimate for this role, which includes estimated wages, benefits, and other forms of compensation, is $27.50 to $38.40. The exact starting compensation to be offered will be determined at the time of selecting an applicant for hire, in which a wide range of factors will be considered, including but not limited to, skillset, years of applicable experience, education, credentials and licensure.
The company is dedicated to empowering its staff with a comprehensive, competitive benefits package, allowing them the freedom to customize their benefits to fit their unique needs. Our abundant resources, programs, and voluntary options serve as a foundation for individual growth and well-being. Learn more here: https://www.primehealthcare.com/benefitsthatmattermost/
Employment Status
Full Time
Shift
Variable
Equal Employment Opportunity
Company is an equal employment opportunity employer. Company prohibits discrimination against any applicant or employee based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (subject to applicable law), disability, military status, genetic information or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. Know Your Rights: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOC_KnowYourRights_screen_reader_10_20.pdf
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